p. 11 | South Africa by G. H. Clark

Review and Herald Publishing Association · Takoma Park Station, Washington, D. C. · Nov 25, 1909

South Africa

By G. H. Clark

G. H. CLARK

On July 12, in answer to a call from the South African Union Conference to engage in caring for the canvassing work, I left the Chesapeake Union Conference, and started on what proved to be a most delightful voyage to this great, needy field. Our boat, the “Teutonic,” left New York July 14, and reached Southampton eight days later. We had perfect weather, except one day, when it was somewhat foggy. On board were several children, whom I gathered about me several times and told Bible stories. This gave me easy access to the parents, with whom I conversed on Bible subjects, and to whom I gave Bible readings. Some were intensely interested in the state of the dead, the Sabbath, etc. Let us hope that the seed was not sown in vain.

I remained in England two weeks, visiting the most prominent places of interest, also gaining much valuable information concerning the canvassing work in that country. I was impressed with the manner in which the work is done there. A small number of books is

handled at a time, and the entire field is thoroughly worked with these before introducing others. Our brethren there have order and system in this work, which is very essential to its success. During my brief stay, I formed some very dear associations. The Lord has loyal people in that portion of his vineyard, and I pray for his blessing to rest richly upon them.

From Southampton to Cape Town it was my privilege to travel with Elder and Mrs. H. J. Edmed, who were on their way home from the General Conference. The voyage covered seventeen uneventful but very pleasant days.

When we reached Cape Town, we found several of the brethren at the dock, awaiting our arrival. Among them were Elder R. C. Porter, president of the South African Union Conference; Elder E. R. Williams, president of the Cape Colony Conference; and Prof. C. P. Crager, principal of Union College. Upon meeting, we all began talking about the canvassing work; and we have not backslidden from this, and do not expect to. All the laborers had been agitating this question, and in less than a week after landing we had two classes organized, and now almost daily some ex-canvasser comes to the front, and says he desires to go back into the field. One of our classes is in the college, and about fifteen students rise at 5:30 A. M. to attend it. They expect to spend their vacation in canvassing, thus gaining an experience in gospel work, also helping themselves financially while spreading the precious rays of light where they are so much needed.

Never have I been so warmly welcomed, and found such union among the workers, and such readiness on the part of all to co-operate in laboring for Christ. When such a combination exists, we may safely predict success and victory, in the name of the Lord. During the month of August, one colporteur here took orders for about three hundred twenty-five dollars’ worth of books.

During all the changes from land to sea, from heat to cold, from cold to heat, and from one kind of food to another, I have not experienced a sick day, not even from seasickness. Before starting, I asked the Lord to keep me well, and he has done it. I praise him for this. We are all of good courage, and expect the work to move forward steadily and triumphantly, until the Lord of the harvest comes to receive the sheaves that we have gathered for him. “Brethren, pray for us.”

Cape Town.